The Los Angeles Lakers just pulled off something nobody saw coming. Marcus Smart, the fiery defender who helped Boston win a championship, is heading to Los Angeles after agreeing to a buyout with Washington. For a team that’s struggled defensively despite adding Luka Dončić, Smart might be exactly what they need to make a real playoff push.
Why Did Marcus Smart Choose the Lakers Over Other Contenders?
In breaking news, ESPN’s Shams Charania reports that former Defensive Player of the Year guard Smart has agreed to a contract buyout with the Washington Wizards and “intends” to sign with the Lakers on a two-year, $11 million deal after clearing waivers.
BREAKING: Marcus Smart has agreed to a contract buyout with the Washington Wizards and intends to sign a two-year, $11 million deal with the Los Angeles Lakers after clearing waivers, sources tell ESPN. A return to a grand stage for the 2022 NBA Defensive Player of the Year. pic.twitter.com/8g9Bxzz11E
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 19, 2025
Smart is an 11-year pro who, after spending the first nine years of his career with the Boston Celtics, has played with two teams over his last two years in the NBA. The move makes sense when you consider what both sides get out of it.
The Wizards no longer needed to roster Smart, as they have no championship aspirations and are building towards a new future with their young talent. Meanwhile, Luka Dončić contacted Smart personally, recruiting him to join the Lakers.
What Do the Lakers Get From Marcus Smart’s Defense?
During the 2024-25 NBA season, Smart played in only 34 games, seven of which he started. Over these 34 games, he averaged nine points, 2.1 rebounds, and 3.2 assists per game.
The 2024-25 campaign was not kind to the 2022 Defensive Player of the Year, as he dealt with various nagging injuries throughout the season. However, despite his limited and inconsistent games, Smart’s defensive rating was 115.8. This mark ranks nearly 0.9 points lower than the NBA league average for shooting guards, 116.7.
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The Lakers are seeking to add defensive-minded players to strengthen their defense. The Lakers in 2024-25, after acquiring Dončić, were 17th in defensive rating. With LeBron James being the oldest player in the league, Austin Reaves, and Dončić not being known for their defense, Los Angeles needs a perimeter defense upgrade, and they are looking at Smart to fill that role.
How Will the Lakers Clear Cap Space for Smart’s Contract?
Before this signing can be official, the Lakers will have to clear cap space. According to ESPN’s Bobby Marks, the Lakers are below the first apron by $909,000. To sign Smart, they must clear space to utilize the $5.1 million biannual exception.
One possible solution is to waive Shake Milton and clear up $3 million. The math works, but it shows just how tight things are financially for Los Angeles. ESPN’s Charania reported that Smart will have a player option on his new Lakers deal, making him available to become a free agent in the summer of 2026.
Smart, a three-time All-Defense first team guard, will have a player option on his new Lakers deal to enter a more flush 2026 free agency, sources said. Point of attack defender was a position of need for L.A. as well — with Luka Doncic recruiting and reaching out to Smart. https://t.co/POZfSea5sU
— Shams Charania (@ShamsCharania) July 19, 2025
Smart comes into the 2025-26 NBA season with a chance to go on a deep playoff run, which he hasn’t done since losing to the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference finals in 2023. For a player who’s built his reputation on winning, joining a Lakers team with championship aspirations makes perfect sense.
